Two of the kindest unsung heroes in in the Southport Group are Ed Thomson and Alan Cornes, members of Starkie Lodge No 1070. As well as helping out considerably at Southport Masonic Hall, they put significant work into linking Masonic funds to charities in the local community. They also selflessly give much of their own time, bringing much needed support to those in need.
Money is originally raised from a number of sources. Some comes from West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity, with the rest relying on the generosity of lodge’s, chapters, other Masonic Orders and indeed private individuals. In today’s environment the need for this work is only increasing and this season a large number of people have been supported through a number of charities.
Ed confirmed that it has been shocking how many people have needed help this year, making it difficult to put a number on how many individuals and families have been reached. Indeed, the money and support are not channelled through a single charity, as there are many worthy causes and those in need have a number of ways in which they can seek help.
Support is not purely financial. Effort is made to speak to the groups and food banks to understand their individual needs, as they can vary considerably. Once those needs are understood, the Southport Masons then go shopping for the charities and deliver what they need right to them. This enables those who work for the charity to concentrate on directly helping the individuals, while the Masonic volunteers manage the logistics for them.
Here are some highlights of the activities supported this year: Cleveland Café, who give free meals to ex-service men through SSAFA, Woodvale Community Centre who run a food larder and breakfast club, the Place2Be who provide a foodbank and warm place for people to meet and gain much needed positive social contact, the Christmas Shelter, who provide meals and packed lunches for people over Christmas. Southport Soup Kitchen were provided with hats, gloves, socks and food vouchers to purchase ingredients to make hot meals. Aldi vouchers were provided to several churches so that those in need have some dignity when they are most at need.
The generosity of Southport Freemasons has even helped a new foodbank set up by purchasing shelving and helping them with food donations. The needs of the community continue to grow. Any donations of time or money will continue to be appreciated with Alan and Ed tirelessly ensuring that Masonic monies go to those most in need.
